Proclamation and Challenge
December 2004
When I first heard the Joseph
Smith story, I knew it was true. I knew that he was an honest young man who
read in James 1:5 that if any lacked wisdom, the could ask of God and get an
answer. I knew that when he said he went in the grove near his home to inquire
about what he was to do, that he was instructed by God the Father and His Son,
Jesus Christ. I still know that story is true. I am so grateful that I have
never doubted that story.
The gospel of Jesus Christ as
taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true and is the
standard by which we should live. Even when we make mortal mistakes, we must
not become discouraged and give up. That is Satan’s wish for us. We must repent
of what we have done wrong, or of what we haven’t done that we should have done
which is right and move forward. We need to be “anxiously engaged” in looking
for opportunities to serve others and to proclaim the gospel to anyone who will
listen.
In 2005 we will celebrate the
200th anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Joseph Smith, the man
who has “done more for the salvation of man on this earth than any other, save
Jesus Christ” (D&C 135: ).
My challenge to you for the
year 2005 is this:
1. Read
about the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith and get to know him as your personal
friend and brother.
2. Read and
study from the Book of Mormon daily.
3. Pray to
know that these things are true. Heavenly Father knows each of us and will
answer our honest inquiries about spiritual things.
May we move forward
individually and as a family toward the goal of eternal life with our Father in
Heaven and with those who have earned that great reward, is my prayer and most
sincere hope for each one of us.
By Jimmy Parker
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